Kelly Robson Foster is a senior associate partner at Bellwether. Since joining the Policy and Evaluation practice area in 2013, Kelly has worked on a variety of issues including school choice, rural education, and policies impacting youth with disrupted education pathways — in particular youth with homeless or foster care experiences.

Prior to joining Bellwether, Kelly taught middle school English and history in Westerville City Schools in Westerville, Ohio, and in the District of Columbia Public Schools. Kelly holds a bachelor’s degree with honors and a master’s degree in education from Ohio State University and a doctorate in education policy from George Washington University.

Why I do this work:

I went into education because I believe that a quality education is one of the most powerful tools a child can acquire, yet my five years in the classroom revealed firsthand the stark contrast in educational quality and experience that we offer to children in this country. I am passionate about ensuring that all kids have access to a quality education that meets their individual needs and prepares them for a successful future.

Experience at Bellwether:

Quantitative and Qualitative Analysis; Survey Research; Data Collection and Analysis; Analysis; Policy Research and Analysis; Writing; Research; Project Management; CMO/Charter School Operators; District Schools; Foundations; Think Tanks; Advocacy Organizations

Client segments served:

K-12 Schools; School Districts; CMO/Charter Schools; State Education Agencies; Government; Foundations and Grantees; Nonprofit Organizations; Policy Organizations; Advocacy Groups

Sample clients:

Gates Family Foundation, Partners for Education at Berea College, National Alliance for Public Charter Schools, Callaway Foundation, uAspire